🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Khao Chi Chan sits in Na Chom Thian sub-district, Sattahip, Chonburi province. It's a limestone hill that was once quarried for stone, leaving the cliff face scarred and uneven. It was later restored, and the line-drawn Buddha image was created on the cliff in 1996–1997 to honour the 50th anniversary of King Rama IX's reign. The image bears the name Phra Phuttha Maha Wachira Uttamopas Sasada.
The Buddha is in the Bhumisparsha (calling-the-earth-to-witness) posture, drawn as a line image onto the cliff using a laser to set the guidelines, then inlaid with golden mosaic tiles along the marks. The figure stands about 109m tall with a lap width of 70m, and around 130m including the lotus base below. When the sun hits the gold surface, it reflects light you can see from far away.
How to Get There From Pattaya
Khao Chi Chan is about 20km from central Pattaya, roughly a 30-minute drive. The main route is Sukhumvit Road heading toward Sattahip, then turning off at the well-signed Khao Chi Chan entrance. There's a large free parking lot.
- Private car / rental car — the easiest option, since public transport is scarce out there. Just drop a pin for "Khao Chi Chan" in Google Maps.
- Grab / taxi from Pattaya — around 500–600 THB one way. It's worth asking your driver to wait, or booking a round trip, because getting a ride back is tough.
- Rented motorbike — about 200–300 THB per day in Pattaya. Fine to ride yourself if you're confident on the roads, but watch for trucks on Sukhumvit.
- Half-day tour — many operators pair Khao Chi Chan with Nong Nooch Garden or Silverlake Vineyard in one trip. Prices depend on the program.
Opening Hours and Entry
Open daily, roughly 6:00–18:00. Free entry, with a donation box if you wish — no obligation. Parking is free too, though at busy times someone may ask for a small parking-attendant tip, which is voluntary.
Want more out of Pattaya? Book tours & activities
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
How to Get Good Photos, and When to Go
The most popular photo spot is the wide grassy field in front of the cliff. Stand far enough back to fit the whole figure in. If you want the gold Buddha to stand out clearly, come when the sun is lighting the cliff face — generally late morning into the afternoon. If you prefer clear, soft skies and cooler air, come early morning or near sunset.
- Early morning (6:00–8:00) — fewer people, cool and comfortable, and you can shoot with an open frame and no one in the way.
- Late morning to afternoon — the gold surface of the Buddha shows up most clearly, but it's hotter and busier. Bring a hat and water.
- Near sunset — soft light and pretty skies, good for group photos, but leave a buffer since it closes around 18:00.
Dress Code
This is a sacred site, so dress respectfully — no tank tops, no shorts well above the knee, and nothing overly tight. The grounds are open and the sun is strong, so comfortable shoes and a hat help a lot.
What to Do Once You're There
Beyond paying respects and taking photos, there are seasonal flower beds nearby, open lawns to rest on, and souvenir and drink stalls around the parking lot. Overall, 45 minutes to an hour is plenty of time to look around.
Pay Respects & Make a Wish
The worship area is on the field in front of the cliff, where you can face the Buddha directly. There are designated spots for incense and candles.
Stroll the Flower Garden
When the flowers are in bloom, the garden in front of the cliff is beautifully arranged — you can frame the flowers and the Buddha in a single shot.
Where to Go Next — Pairing It Into One Trip
Khao Chi Chan is in the Sattahip–Na Chom Thian zone, where the sights sit close together — just a few more minutes' drive apart. It's easy to combine into a half-day or full-day trip.
- Silverlake Vineyard — right next door, open around 9:00–18:00, free entry. There's a vineyard, seasonal flower fields, restaurants and a cafe, and you can sip wine while looking out at the Khao Chi Chan cliff.
- Nong Nooch Garden, Pattaya — a large botanical garden with an elephant show and landscaped grounds, about a 15–20 minute drive from Khao Chi Chan (entry fee applies).
- Na Chom Thian Beach — a long, quieter beach than Pattaya's, good for a relaxed seafood stop before heading back.
Enjoy Pattaya Sensibly
Pattaya has a lively nightlife district. If you head out at night, drink in moderation and keep an eye on your valuables and bag. And if you're taking a boat to Koh Larn the next day, always check the weather and sea conditions first.
Plan a full day in Pattaya, including where to stay and eat
See the Pattaya travel guide →